This session will address succession planning and leadership transitions in the nonprofit sector. Panelists will share experiences and strategies for preparing organizations for leadership changes, including board development, donor considerations, and partnerships. The discussion will emphasize the importance of proactive planning to ensure continuity and long-term impact. Read More

Price: Members - $25, Future Members - $35

Lunch Included

Major changes in our U.S. economy occur roughly every ten years—9/11, the 2008 housing crisis, the 2021 pandemic, and shifting government funding have all dramatically affected nonprofit revenue. How will your organization navigate challenges like these? Major Gifts Fundraising has never been more critical and remains the single greatest revenue generator for nonprofits in California.

Simply put, money is oxygen. Without it, you can’t breathe. Is your nonprofit on life support? Are you receiving the resources you need to survive the economic and social changes we’re facing? If you’re a nonprofit executive, board member, development officer, pastor, volunteer, or marketing director, it’s time to RE-IMAGINE YOUR NONPROFIT in ways that transform both you and the people you serve.

Major Gifts Ramp-Up Pacific Coast

Westmont College

955 La Paz Rd., Santa Barbara, CA

February 24-25, 2026

9am-4:00pm (Both Days)

Happy Hour (5pm)

AFP Members: Contact the Office to receive the code to register for free!

Questions about registration or the event? Please contact Major Gifts Ramp-Up organizer, Thomas D. Reed.

Be Your Grant Writer’s Best Source: 6 Tips to Win Funding

Learn how to become your grant team’s strongest source by sharing context, offering clarity, and collaborating like a seasoned newsroom pro. This quick guide breaks down six practical tips nonprofit leaders can use to help craft sharper, more compelling, and funder-ready grant proposals. (The Nonprofit Times) Read More

Building a Resilient Fundraising Strategy for 2026: What Diversification Really Looks Like

Part of the 5 Fundraising Trends for 2026 series, this article shows why fundraising resiliency in 2026 starts with diversifying your revenue mix—from exploring endowments and monthly giving programs to expanding foundation, corporate, and earned income opportunities—so your organization isn’t overly dependent on any one source. Read More 

What Are Your Nonprofit’s Priorities and Goals for 2026?

As nonprofits look ahead to 2026, leaders are prioritizing stability, stronger partnerships, and more inclusive opportunities across their communities. This article highlights insights from the Blue Avocado community—from expanding employment pathways and upgrading technology to deepening relationships and strengthening funding strategies—to help organizations plan for a year of impact and growth. (Blue Avocado) Read More



New Member

Niamh Barrett

Santa Barbara Zoo

Diane Devine

Philanthropy Officer

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Greg Kirchmaier

Santa Barbara Bowl

Returning Members

Rebecca Anderson, CFRE

Director of Development

Ganna Walska Lotus Land

Krista Papageorge Fields

Alzheimer's Association

Anne Paul King

Executive Director

Ventura College Foundation

Eric Knight

Founder & Principal Consultant

Aspira Philanthropy Lab

Karen Ortiz

Director of Philanthropy

Adventist Health Sonora

Jennie Parkinson

Development Officer

Boys & Girls Club of Camarillo

Shannon Silk

Annual Giving Officer

Santa Barbara Zoo

Interested in becoming a member? Visit https://afpglobal.org/join to learn about membership benefits, pricing and how to join today! We also have membership scholarships available. For more details visit our Scholarship page.

Presenting Sponsors

Premier Sponsors

Partner Sponsor

Community Sponsors

Friend Sponsor

Media Sponsor

In-Kind Sponsor

Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP)

Founded in 1960, AFP International (formerly the National Society of Fund Raising Executives) advances philanthropy through over 24,000 members in 243 chapters around the world. AFP International is committed to promoting philanthropy and supporting the practice of ethical and effective fundraising. AFP offers many opportunities both at the local chapter and international association levels. Join your local AFP Santa Barbara/Ventura Counties Chapter today for professional development, networking, and employment opportunities.

Association of Fundraising Professionals

P.O. Box 1564, Santa Barbara, CA 93102-1564

(714) 771-3685

admin@afpsbv.org

www.afpsbv.org

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